This study of the first crucial clash of the Falklands War is based on the narratives of the commanders, British and Argentine, from brigadier to corporal. It follows in detail, and with the aid of many maps, the 14 hours of vicious infantry fighting as both sides struggled for the tiny settlement at Goose Green. It shows, too, how 2 Para came within an ace of failure as, nearing exhaustion, outnumbered, low on ammunition, and lacking adequate fire support, they fought over open ground, and in daylight, against prepared positions. Nor does the author fight shy of the controversial questions raised : Why was the battle necessary at all? Why did London overrule the brigade commander's reluctance to attack Goose Green? Did Colonel "H' Jones's solo charge on Darwin ridge - which won him a posthumous VC - decide the issue?

1. 2 Para -- 2. Task Force Mercedes -- 3. Operation Sutton -- 4. It's on - It's off - It's on again -- 5. Preparations -- 6. 2 Para's plan -- 7. The Low Pass and Burntside House -- 8. Dawn at Darwin and Boca House -- 9. The Gorse Bully -- 10. Boca House -- 11. Action for the airfield -- 12. Action for the schoolhouse -- The Argentines' surrender -- Postscript -- Appendix 1. 2 Para's order of battle -- Appendix 2. The Argentines' order of battle -- Appendix 3. Artillery support at Goose Green -- Appendix 4. Major Keeble's surrender ultimatum -- Appendix 5. 2 Para's Roll of Honour -- Appendix 6. Honours and awards.